BOC turns over P141.89 million kush to PDEA

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) eight abandoned pieces of luggage containing 94.59 kilos of suspected high-grade marijuana or kush, valued at P141.89 million.

The BOC-Ninoy Aquino International Airport said the luggage underwent a PDEA K9 inspection at the interline baggage room of NAIA Terminal 3 and showed indications of possible illegal drugs.

Suspicious images were detected during X-ray screening, prompting further examination and turnover to PDEA for proper handling and legal action.

“We will continue strengthening our border controls and working closely with our law enforcement partners to prevent illegal drugs and other prohibited commodities from entering our communities,” BOC-NAIA district collector Maria Yasmin Obillos-Mapa said.

Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the BOC continues to strengthen border protection and inter-agency coordination while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.

“Protecting our borders means protecting our people. We will remain vigilant and continue working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that our ports are not used as gateways for illegal drugs and other threats to our communities,” Nepomuceno said.